Description
Creamy and flavorful homemade refried beans made with simple ingredients. A healthier and tastier alternative to canned beans, perfect as a classic Mexican side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bean cooking liquid or water
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Cook onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Sauté garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add beans and liquid: Add the cooked pinto beans along with the bean cooking liquid or water to the skillet.
- Mash beans: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the beans to your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
- Season: Stir in the cumin, salt, and black pepper to taste, blending the flavors well.
- Simmer and stir: Cook the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust thickness as needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the refried beans warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Adjust the thickness by adding more bean cooking liquid or water if the beans are too thick.
- You can substitute pinto beans with black beans for a different flavor profile.
- For extra flavor, consider adding cheese or chili peppers during the cooking process.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
